Unai Simón wins Lev Yashin Award as 2026's best goalkeeper
Athletic Bilbao and Spain goalkeeper honoured at the Ballon d'Or ceremony in London; he beat nine other nominees including David Raya and Thibaut Courtois.
October 26, 2026 — London. Unai Simón was named the world’s best goalkeeper for 2026 at the Ballon d'Or ceremony held in London, receiving the Lev Yashin Award reserved for the top male goalkeeper.
The Athletic Bilbao stopper and Spain international collected the honour after a year in which he stood out in key matches on football's biggest stages.
Simón was one of the ten nominees for the prize, facing competition that included David Raya, Joan García, Thibaut Courtois, Emiliano Martínez and Gregor Kobel.
Recognition for a goalkeeper in form
The Lev Yashin Award is presented to the best goalkeeper in men's football, and Simón's performances for both club and country earned him the accolade at the ceremony.
Earlier in the evening, De la Fuente was named coach of the year for 2026.
Photo: press material from the event
